Happy 90th Birthday to Boxing Legend Keith Jefferies 🥊

Welsh Boxing is delighted to wish a very happy 90th birthday to one of the true giants of our sport, Keith Jefferies.

For more than half a century, Keith has been the beating heart of Cwmbran Amateur Boxing Club, shaping champions in the ring and inspiring generations far beyond it. Since opening the club’s doors in 1969, he has coached generations of boxing champions.

Keith’s boxing journey began in 1947, when an 11-year-old boy from South Wales took up the sport to stand up to bullies. By 1949, he was a Welsh titleholder himself. After a successful amateur career, he turned to coaching, first at Newbridge Boxing Club – where a young Joe Calzaghe benefitted from his knowledge – and then at his own gym in Cwmbran, where his legacy truly took root.

As Kevin Hudson, Welsh Boxing East Division Secretary, reflects:

He’s coached generations of young people, not just in boxing but in life skills. He is respected by people in the Cwmbran area, and by past and present boxers he has inspired at his club. Many of his boxers have gone on to win national and international honours.”

Beyond his coaching, Keith has also played an important role in boxing administration. As Kevin recalls:

“Keith was a previous Chairman of the East Division, and he’s still ever present at meetings, always ready to help younger coaches and committee members. Personally, he has inspired me to always give your best in whatever you wish to achieve, and to help and guide others whenever you can.”

Over the decades, Keith has built more than just boxers. He has nurtured young people from all walks of life, his influence has reached far beyond the ropes, leaving a mark on countless lives.

From everyone at Welsh Boxing – thank you, Keith, for your unwavering dedication, your decades of service, and the inspiration you’ve given to the sport we all love.